Used this trail as our descent from Mt LeConte. This is popular and busy but very challenging. 2700’ incline over 5.7 mi is a lot of uphill on the ascent. The initial part in the valley just after the trailhead is amazingly beautiful, however, with rhododendrons and a whitewater creek crossed by log bridges along the way. Once past that, the ascent begins and is relentless. The persistent are rewarded with some awesome views along the way. Be careful at this time of year: ice and snow can make some parts of the trail treacherous. If you plan to day hike this, bring water and allow plenty of time.

I hiked this on 11/12/18 and despite being rather overcast, the views were still stunning at the summit. I spent the night in the parking lot and started out at sunrise. This was a great hike, and a truly rewarding experience. Leaves and some sprinkling rain made parts rather slippery, but was all to be expected in mid-November.

We did this hike with our dog last weekend and it was amazing! We got there at 7:30 am on Saturday and got the last actual parking spot in the lot, so definitely get there early. We did the trail up and the fire road back. Trail is definitely more difficult but it’s fun for the way up. The views at the top are absolutely amazing and definitely worth it!

This is my favorite hike in the Smokies. Beautiful views and lots of amazing natural wonders to take in. Can be difficult at times but is well worth the effort. Can't wait to do this again when the wild flowers are in bloom.

We did not go all the way to mount leconte. My hubby and I stopped at the bluff. From the trail head to the bluff, it’s about 2.2 miles. What a great hike. Really loved this trail. The mossy trees and creek were amazing. The arch was super cool. The bluff had icicles hanging that were falling down like missles. Loved it. This is a very popular trail so go early.

Beautiful views. We took the fire road up and back. Overall took just under 4 hours with breaks and time at the summit. Very crowded in the parking lot, so make sure you get there early so you don’t have to park on the side of the road and get a ticket as I saw others getting.

I have so much respect for this mountain after hiking this trail. Definitely one of the hardest hikes I've done, but also the most rewarding. There are so many beautiful landmarks to keep you inspired along the way.

Good hike for a day trip. We took the fire road up and down because it was easier. I overpacked and should have only carried extra water snacks/food, and layers of clothes. It took is 3 hours or so up and back. Rested at the top for an hour. Beautiful views from the top. The rest of the route had limited views. I got a parking ticket for parking on the side of the highway since the lot was full ($15 fine). Pretty crowded on the trail.

well maintained trail with easy access from the parking lot. Took about 2 hours each way with minimal difficulty and plenty of photographs. The ridge above the main trail is worth walking. Once you make it to the overlook you won't be disappointed even in foggy conditions!

Loved it! I went for a sunset hike in October during peak foliage and it was beautiful! Lots of pretty scenery and rock formations to climb on. Sunrise would be better because the rock at the top faces east. But still super incredible!

Didn’t get a chance to do the trail. Cops were ticketing everyone that wasn’t in the parking lot. Going right down the line with tickets. Be careful where you park. Guess I have to find another hike now.

My wife and I hiked to Mt. LeConte via Alum Cave Trail. We have never gone this way before but have done it several times via Rainbow Falls and Grotto Falls. No matter which way you go, it is beautiful. The foliage was gorgeous.

This hike has it all! Great variety of trees, views and difficulty including the cave, stone steps, and exposed rock where you will be thankful for the handholds. Be sure to wear waterproof shoes and once you get to the Lodge keep going for better views from the Cliff Top.

Don’t miss this!!Absolutely amazing!!! Majestic views. It’s a long hike, start early so you can stop and take pictures along the way. It took us 8 hours round trip moving at a goos pace and making a few stops. Don’t eat the sack lunch at Le Conte lodge, it was horrible. Pack your own food and plenty to drink.

Me and my sweetheart Hoss went on this hike and it was beautiful,the climb is so worth it!! Beautiful views and cliffs.Seen the first snow of the year! The view from the top was beautiful,it was cold and windy. But cant wait to do it again. I couldn't ask for a better hiking partner,he wore me out!!

Great hike especially later in the year. You get to see multiple layers of the forest on the way up. Beautiful at the top. Moderately tough hike up, but if you go at your own pace it’s more than doable. Wear good shoes. Weather can change throughout the day.

Awesome trail. We logged 14 miles adding the two additional trails at the summit/lodge. Cliff tops is a must do for the views. Lodge is super quaint, check out the Lamas by the dining room. This is a strenuous hike with a good elevation from the base to the trailhead. Nice resting spot at Inspiration. Don’t forget to look for the eye of the needle. Others have mentioned it is very popular and well trailed. There are two parking lots at the trail head.

If you don’t want to spend all day hiking this trail...you can drive to the summit and enjoy the same views. The hike wasn’t worth it after finding this little tid bit out. Also...almost got mauled by a bear.